Tour Sikkim & Darjeeling district of West Bengal
Explore the northeast regions of India on this lovely introductory trip which fuses culture and history with breath-taking natural beauty. Get a glimpse into paradise in Darjeeling, Gangtok and Pelling, three unique hill destinations filled with vibrancy and charm dotted across the state of Sikkim and Darjeeling district.
On this trip you'll enjoy dramatic views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, and other snow-capped peaks. You'll also have plenty of opportunities to soak up lush tea plantations, beautiful monasteries, and scenic villages as you go. See a different side to India on this unforgettable West Bengal journey.
Services
Included:
- Six nights accommodation in double rooms in three, four or five-star hotels
- Six breakfasts, six dinners
- Private airport & land transfers with chauffeur
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
- English-speaking guide on excursions
- Toy train ride in Darjeeling
- Tea plantation tour
- All applicable taxes
Excluded:
- International & domestic flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Any meals & drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Mandatory gala dinner supplement at Christmas & New Year's Eve
Optional:
- Boat ride on Changu Lake
- Gondola ride in Gangtok
Itinerary at a Glance
New Jalpaiguri - Darjeeling
Welcome to Darjeeling
Darjeeling
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Darjeeling
Darjeeling - Pelling
Journey to Pelling
Pelling
Explore the splendour of Pelling
Pelling - Gangtok
Venture to Gangtok
Gangtok
Explore the breadth of Gangtok
Gangtok - New Jalpaiguri
Say farewell to India
Detailed Itinerary
New Jalpaiguri - Darjeeling
Day 1: Welcome to Darjeeling
Standing high in the Himalayas at an altitude of 2,134m, Darjeeling (or Dorje Ling, place of the thunderbolt) offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks, with the Kangchenjunga rising higher than all the others.
Often referred to as the Queen of the Hills, it remains just as charming as its smaller neighbours thanks to its little waterfalls and narrow gauge railway track. Surrounded by world-famous tea plantations, it remains one of the most exotic destinations in India.
Upon arrival into the airport, look out for the friendly face of your driver waiting for you in the arrivals hall. You will then take a private transfer to your hotel in the heart of Darjeeling, which will be your base for the night.
Darjeeling
Day 2: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Darjeeling
Begin with an early-morning visit to Tiger Hill to see a beautiful sunrise across the Himalayan mountains. Watch as the horizon changes colours just before sunrise, and the entire Himalayan range takes on a golden hue.
On the way back, you'll visit the Ghoom Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the area, built in 1875. Here you will see the image of Mythey Buddha at a height of 4.5m.
Return to your hotel for breakfast, then embark on a city tour of Darjeeling. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute which was started by Tenzing Norgay after he climbed Mount Everest, followed by the Zoological Park, Tibetan Refugee Centre, Tenzing Rock, Gombu Rock, and the Happy Valley Tea Estate.
Darjeeling - Pelling
Day 3: Journey to Pelling
You’ll be picked up from your hotel this morning to begin the journey to Pelling. This serene mountain town is located in the western districts of Sikkim, and at an altitude of 2,000m, it commands a spectacular view of Mount Kangchenjunga.
Once you have arrived, check into your hotel and relax in the comfort of your room. Feel free to explore for the rest of the day at your own pace!
Pelling
Day 4: Explore the splendour of Pelling
After breakfast, proceed for a heritage walk down the streets of Pelling. You'll visit the solemn Pemayangtse Monastery, the awe-inspiring Rabdentse Ruins, the splendid Khechipalri Lake, and the Kanchenjunga and Rambi Falls. Once you’ve soaked it all in, you will have free time to continue exploring on your own.
This town offers a tranquil atmosphere, and it will feel as though time has slowed down as you acquaint yourself with your surroundings. The air at this altitude could not be more crisp, and the silence means that you’re able to contemplate life and escape the hustle and bustle of your normal routine.
Pelling - Gangtok
Day 5: Venture to Gangtok
This morning after breakfast, depart Pelling for the state capital Gangtok, which sits at an altitude of 1,750m. Since its designation as capital, the city has undergone rapid development. The downtown area is dominated by huge government buildings decorated with traditional Buddhist symbols.
Gangtok is also a resting ground for people travelling to North Sikkim. Surrounded by monasteries and orchids, it is truly a traveller's delight. Once you've arrived, check into your hotel and freshen up before proceeding on your city tour, visiting the Rumtek Monastery, Do Drul Chorten temple, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, and Flower Exhibition Centre.
Gangtok
Day 6: Explore the breadth of Gangtok
After a comfortable sleep and delectable breakfast, embark on one final adventure in India: a full-day excursion to Changu Lake, 35km from Gangtok and sitting at an altitude of more than 3,500m. The lake gets its water from melting snow off the surrounding mountains. Legend says that Buddhist lamas could forecast the future here, by studying the colour of the lake’s waters.
En-route you'll also visit Baba Mandir, where you can enjoy a cable car ride at your own expense. Then, upon your return, spend the evening at your leisure; feel free to relax in the comfort of your room or explore the rest that Gangtok has to offer.
Gangtok - New Jalpaiguri
Day 7: Say farewell to India
After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be transferred to the airport to catch your onward flight. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, but we hope you have enjoyed your time exploring the very best that this region of India has to offer!
